Sinfonia No. 15 by Johann Sebastian Bach, originally for piano solo, is now available for string orchestras because of Shirl Jae Atwell's musical arrangement. Sinfonia No. 15 arranged in the original...
Circinus is a Latin word meaning circle. And in music, a circle of organized sound is a canon. The theme of this canon weaves itself through the voices; sometimes in unison, octaves, as a duet, a trio...
Bluegrass music is an important part of Kentucky's rich musical heritage. Bluegrass musicians often participate in jam sessions where music is spontaneously created. 'Kentucky Jam' brings to life the...
'Mercurius' is a medieval Latin noun used to describe messengers, of which the Roman god Mercury is most famous. Eloquence and swiftness are characteristics attributed to these couriers and that is re...
Jeunesse is a French word used to describe 'the time of one's youth,' which is reflected in this music that is carefree, yet bittersweet. This lovely piece has a lilting quality that demands attention...
Adapted from a dance tune of the 1600s, this is a lively tune and very dance-like. The melody is light-hearted and carefree. As with any dance music, maintaining the rhythmic vigor is crucial. Gaiety...
A paean is a joyous song or hymn of praise, tribute, thanksgiving, or triumph, and very much in keeping with the feeling of a jubilant march. Get in the spirit and celebrate life. (2:40)
'Arousing wonder and inquisitiveness' - that is mystère. And this piece exemplifies, through music, the wonder and incomprehension of a mystery with melodies and counter melodies throughout. (3:15)
This lighthearted, carefree work is easy to remember upon hearing. It has a snappy rhythm that makes you want to dance to its lively tune. Minstrels were musicians who traveled throughout the countrys...
Capture a moment of perfect serenity with this quiet, peaceful selection.á The calm, lilting mood of 'Simplicity would make the perfect counterpart to an energetic piece in your next concert program.
Recurring, asymmetric ostinato figures drive this hypnotic piece, punctuated by harmonically lush cadences. Program this exciting Shirl Jae Atwell work as a concert opener or pre-intermission cliffhan...
Adapted from John Playford's 'The Dancing Master', 1651 - Adapted from a dance tune of the 1600s, this is a lively tune and very dance-like. The melody is light-hearted and carefree. As with any dance...
In the tradition of 17th century Burgundian carols, the overall character of this piece is homophonic with strong rhythm underneath. A beautiful addition to any holiday concert!
A paean is a joyous song or hymn of praise, tribute, thanksgiving, or triumph, and very much in keeping with the feeling of a jubilant march. Get in the spirit and celebrate life.
If you've got the 'beat' and you want to groove, Jive is the tune for you. It's catchy, lighthearted and playful, and features simple rhythmic syncopation that gives the melody good momentum. The mode...
Ms. Atwell has incorporated her signature sounds and styles, but at the elementary levelá Even the most inexperienced orchestras will sound full and mature with this terrific piece, based on an old En...
Grade 4, an old tune with a new setting, this one really rocks!
Strollin' is a charming new work for String Orchestra, utilizing syncopation in 6/8 time. Written as a contemporary jazz piece, every voice is balanced with the other making this a great piece to rein...
Winner of the 1996 National School Orchestra Association Composition Contest!
Energetically-charged winner of the 1997 Texas Orchestra Directors Association Composition Contest. Drifen (pronounced Dri'ven) is derived from the Middle English spelling of driven and means to drive...
Akerwis comes from the Latin word acervus meaning to stack. Here it's the stacking of notes to create chords for this swing-style jazz composition.
Based on an Irish Fiddle tune brought to the U.S., this high-energy piece is fun for all players! It's in A minor and doesn't require shifting except for a few spots in the bass part.
Ms. Atwell says, 'Once you have heard Motif, you will remember it!' Motif is jazzy and includes syncopated passages for everyone.
Another great composition from award winner Shirl Arwell! Hold onto your hats as you listen to this rhythmically-charged selection. Listen, too, for the unique ways melody, counterpoint, and jazz harm...
Catchy blues with a rock beat that will have feet tapping and fingers snapping!
Lighthearted and carefree, Shirl Atwell's infectious rhythmic designs offer orchestras great opportunities to strengthen counting and syncopation with this E Minor composition.
Ms. Atwell has added a unique sparkle to the carol, We Three Kings. Giving all sections of the orchestra a chance to play the melody, this is a true performance piece that offers experienced orchestra...
Ms. Atwell says, 'Once you have heard Motif, you will remember it!' Motifá is jazzy and includes syncopated passages for everyone.
